The Henry H001 Golden Boy .22 Magnum is more than just a rifle; it's a legacy. This lever-action beauty embodies classic American craftsmanship and delivers exceptional performance for plinking, small game hunting, and target shooting. This review dives deep into its features, performance, pros, and cons, helping you determine if the Henry H001 Golden Boy .22 Magnum is the right firearm for you.
Design and Build Quality: A Testament to Craftsmanship
The Henry Golden Boy's design is instantly recognizable. Its polished, octagon-shaped barrel, American walnut stock, and brass receiver contribute to its timeless appeal. The lever action is smooth and reliable, a hallmark of Henry rifles. The fit and finish are exceptional; you're paying for quality, and it shows. This isn't a mass-produced rifle; it's meticulously crafted, resulting in a firearm that feels substantial and durable in your hands.
The rifle's weight, while not overly burdensome, provides excellent stability during shooting. The overall balance is well-considered, contributing to comfortable handling and accurate shots. The classic design, coupled with its robust construction, makes it a pleasure to own and use.
Performance: Accuracy and Reliability in the .22 Magnum
The .22 Magnum cartridge offers more stopping power than its .22 LR counterpart, making the Golden Boy a capable small game hunting rifle. While not designed for long-range shooting, the accuracy at typical hunting and plinking distances is excellent. Many users report impressive grouping at 50 yards and beyond with appropriate ammunition.
The lever-action mechanism is smooth and efficient, allowing for quick follow-up shots. The rifle's reliability is noteworthy; it consistently cycles ammunition without malfunctions, a testament to Henry's dedication to quality control. This makes it ideal for both experienced shooters and those new to lever-action rifles.
Features: A Detailed Look at the H001's Components
- Octagon Barrel: Contributes to the rifle's classic look and feel, also affecting the balance and potentially influencing accuracy.
- American Walnut Stock: A beautiful, durable wood that provides a comfortable grip and enhances the rifle's aesthetic appeal.
- Brass Receiver: Adds to the rifle's classic charm and contributes to its overall robustness.
- Tube-Fed Magazine: Provides ample ammunition capacity for extended shooting sessions. Note that the magazine capacity may vary slightly depending on the specific model.
- Adjustable Sights: While not as sophisticated as some modern rifles, the iron sights offer sufficient accuracy for most applications.
Pros and Cons: Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros:
- Exceptional build quality and craftsmanship.
- Smooth and reliable lever action.
- Classic and aesthetically pleasing design.
- Good accuracy at typical shooting ranges.
- Relatively easy to maintain.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to other .22 Magnum rifles.
- Iron sights might not be ideal for all shooters.
- Limited scope mounting options (often requiring aftermarket mounts).
Who is the Henry H001 Golden Boy .22 Magnum For?
This rifle is an excellent choice for:
- Collectors: The Henry Golden Boy is a beautiful and highly sought-after firearm that appeals to collectors of lever-action rifles.
- Small Game Hunters: The .22 Magnum cartridge provides adequate stopping power for small game.
- Target Shooters: Its accuracy makes it suitable for plinking and target practice.
- Those seeking a reliable and durable firearm: Henry rifles are known for their longevity and reliability.
Conclusion: A Timeless Classic Worth Considering
The Henry H001 Golden Boy .22 Magnum is more than just a functional firearm; it's a piece of American history. While the price might be higher than some competitors, the superior build quality, classic design, and reliable performance justify the cost for many shooters. If you're looking for a beautiful, reliable, and accurate lever-action rifle, the Henry Golden Boy deserves serious consideration. It’s a rifle you'll be proud to own and enjoy for years to come.
